How to Succeed as an ODUOnline Student

Online classes take a lot of self-discipline and time management. Our online courses are designed with the online learner in mind, but the programs are still rigorous. You'll learn the same material as on-campus students, and be taught by the same ODU faculty. We've collected important links and tips on this page to help you do your best at ODUOnline.

For newly admitted students

An academic advisor will contact you after admission to help you plan your courses and get registered for class. Your advisor is there to help you succeed, so ask them about anything that's not clear. They're experts in your degree programs, and they can connect you with other University resources.

Technical planning

About a week before the semester starts, log into ODU's learning management system with your MIDAS ID and password to make sure you can access it. Your professor may upload your class before the semester starts, so you can explore the class space as well.

Set up your study space

Create a comfortable and quiet space where you can study regularly. Keep distractions and noise to a minimum. Put all your supplies--textbooks, notepaper, pens, etc.--in one place that's easy to access. If you don't have a good place to study at home, consider studying at a nearby library or in a quiet place at work.

Plan on spending 8-10 hours per week for each online class you're taking.

Your professor may send out the syllabus or list of course materials before the semester begins. Order your textbooks as soon as possible so you're ready to begin on the first day of class.

Locate online ODU resources

We have a lot of online tools and resources to help you succeed in your studies, from tutoring to writing help and library services. Check them out here.

Important contact information

Keep a copy of important contact numbers and email addresses in a place where you can access them even if you lose Internet access. You should include:

Online Class Behavior

Tips for emailing your professor

In online courses, it's more important than ever to stay in contact with your professor. If you have technical difficulty, a family emergency, or any other issues that interfere with your ability to attend class or meet assignment deadlines, contact your professor as soon as possible to let the know.

Your professor is a real person: talk to them with respect. Use complete sentences (no text-speak), and explain what your question is. Always be courteous, even when you disagree.

Sign your name at the end.

Use your time well

Make a schedule on a calendar or planner that includes due dates for assignments and exams. Schedule specific times to complete classwork or study before exams. Don't wait to the last minute to submit your assignments! Send them in early to avoid lateness due to a technical difficulty.

Study and homework tips

It helps to have a regular study time each day. Try to study in the same place, too. If you study for long periods, take a break each hour.

Don't procrastinate! Stick to your schedule. If you run into any trouble, contact your instructor as soon as possible.

Create a folder on your computer and name it with your course ID, like ACCT 301. Save all your assignments in that folder. If your professor does not have a specific file naming convention for assignments, use file names that will be clear to you. If you have to email a file to your professor, include your course ID and last name in the file name. Example: smith_ACCT301_assignment2.doc

If you have trouble with an assignment, contact your instructor as soon as possible.

Exams

Your instructor should tell you what kind of exams you will have in each course, or include those details in the syllabus. If you have any questions about the exam, ask them early! More details about the different types of online exams can be found here.

Course evaluations

Near the end of the semester, you should receive an email asking you to complete a course evaluation. Please complete it by the deadline. Your feedback is invaluable to the instructor and course designers!